The University of Maryland has concluded that "unhappy people watch more TV", while those who reckon they're "very happy" tend to pass the time reading or socializing.
That's the conclusion of a study of "time use studies" and a "continuing series of social attitude surveys" spanning 30 years and encompassing the habits of 30, …

And just to make people feel even more wretched...

I..

I haven't plugged my TV in [to anything other than my computer] for 5 months or more now, and it's great. A little iPlayer now and then, but I can definately say my life is better without adverts. (I simetimes go to the cinema late for a viewing just to miss the adverts too, marvelous, catch the trailers though)

Also: is it not the fact that people who don't have people to socialise with will watch tv becuase they're lonely, which leads to not being happy. Do yourselves a favour and unplug the bugger. At least buy some games, where you can take part in the action.

The only thing that could improve Eastenders et al is, basically, a tactical nuke.